northerntool.com
NorthernTool.com: What It Is and How It Works
NorthernTool.com is the official website of Northern Tool + Equipment, a U.S.–based company that sells tools, equipment, and industrial supplies online and in physical stores. The business focuses on tools and gear for professionals, builders, hobbyists, and DIYers. It’s essentially an online storefront and information hub where customers can browse, research, and buy products from a wide range of categories.
The site has been around for a while — Northern Tool launched its first website in 1999 to expand beyond catalogs and physical stores and meet customers where they were increasingly shopping: on the internet.
NorthernTool.com acts as a central platform for everything the company offers. Users can search by category, brand, or specific product type, read product reviews, and often access educational content like how-to guides and tips on using tools safely and effectively.
The company itself, Northern Tool + Equipment, began in 1981 as a small enterprise selling log splitters and hydraulic work from a garage. Over the decades it expanded into a major tool and equipment retailer, with physical stores across many U.S. states and an extensive online presence.
What You Can Do on NorthernTool.com
The core purpose of the website is e-commerce for tools and equipment, but it goes beyond basic online shopping:
- Browse and purchase tools and equipment — anything from power tools and hand tools to generators, compressors, trailers, and outdoor power equipment. NorthernTool.com carries products from well-known brands as well as several private label brands the company owns.
- Search by category — users can filter by broad categories (for example, power tools) or drill down to specific types of equipment.
- Read user reviews and ratings — products and brands often have customer-submitted ratings, so you can gauge quality and performance before buying.
- Access educational content — there are sections with expert advice, tutorials, and practical guides to help with projects or tool selection.
- Find physical store details — if you prefer in-person shopping or pickup, NorthernTool.com lists locations and often store-specific offerings.
Company Background Behind the Site
The online presence is tied to a longstanding tool retailer based in Burnsville, Minnesota. That company, Northern Tool + Equipment, was founded in 1981 by Don Kotula, initially selling log splitters out of a garage before building out catalog sales and physical store locations.
Over time, the business diversified into its own brands and expanded the kinds of products it sells. Today it’s a multi-channel retailer, meaning sales happen through catalogs, online, and in stores. The company has grown to a substantial size — it’s cited as a billion-dollar business with thousands of employees and hundreds of stores across the United States.
Northern Tool also developed several private labels (brands owned by the company) such as NorthStar, Powerhorse, Klutch, Strongway, Roughneck, and others. These brands make up a significant chunk of the company’s offerings and sales.
Types of Products You’ll Find
NorthernTool.com offers a lot of categories, making it a comprehensive source for tools and equipment. Here’s an overview of what’s available:
- Power tools — drills, saws, sanders, impact tools, and more from well-known brands as well as Northern Tool’s own lines.
- Hand tools — wrenches, ratchets, screwdrivers, hammers, and essentials for everyday tasks.
- Outdoor power equipment — things like chainsaws, lawn mowers, tractors, and outdoor gear.
- Generators and compressors — heavy-duty machines for job sites or home backup power.
- Welding and fabrication gear — equipment and accessories for metalworking.
- Shop and garage storage — cabinets, racks, and organization tools.
- Trailers and towing gear — for hauling equipment or materials.
- Safety equipment and accessories — protective gear and support products.
The range is broad, and the website is built to help you filter by purpose, price, brand, or feature set.
Pricing, Membership, and Shopping Experience
NorthernTool.com operates like a typical online retailer, but there are a few nuances that have appeared in user feedback. Some customers report good pricing and product availability, and many praise the variety of tools and decent deals.
At the same time, there are occasional complaints about shipping costs, confusing promotions, and checkout issues, according to reviews on third-party sites. Some customers find promotions or claims of free shipping that don’t seem to apply without additional requirements.
Like any large online retailer, there’s a mix of experiences. Some buyers are very happy with their orders and delivery, while others have run into delays or service issues.
Pros and Cons Reported by Users
Looking at customer reviews and independent ratings, you can see a range of opinions about buying through NorthernTool.com:
Positives often mentioned:
- Wide selection of tools and equipment makes it easy to find what you need.
- Competitive pricing on many items.
- Helpful customer service experiences reported by some buyers.
Negatives that show up in feedback:
- Confusion over promotions, especially free shipping offers.
- Mixed reviews on delivery and returns — some people find the process smooth; others report trouble with returns or delays.
- Some independent review sites show below-average ratings for customer service at certain locations.
Company Reputation and Work Culture
Beyond customers, employee feedback gives another perspective on the business behind Northerntool.com. Reviews from sites like Glassdoor and Indeed suggest that working at Northern Tool + Equipment can vary a lot by role and location. Ratings for employee experience generally fall in the middle range, with some saying it’s a solid place to work and others noting challenges related to management or advancement.
Key Takeaways
- NorthernTool.com is the e-commerce site for Northern Tool + Equipment, a major U.S. tool and equipment retailer.
- It sells a wide range of tools, machines, and gear for professional and personal use.
- The website includes product browsing, filtering, reviews, and educational content.
- The company has deep roots in the tool industry, starting in 1981 and growing into a large retailer.
- Customer feedback is mixed but often positive on selection and value, with some concerns about shipping and service.
FAQ
Is NorthernTool.com a legitimate site?
Yes. It’s the official online store for Northern Tool + Equipment, a well-established industry retailer.
What kind of products can I buy there?
You can buy everything from power tools and hand tools to generators, compressors, outdoor equipment, storage solutions, and more.
Does the site include customer reviews?
Yes. Products on NorthernTool.com often include customer ratings and reviews that help guide purchasing decisions.
Are prices competitive?
Many customers find the pricing competitive, though experiences with promotions and shipping costs vary.
Can I shop both online and in stores?
Yes. The site supports online ordering and also links to northern tool retail locations where you can buy in person.
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